This year also their report has a separate chapter under the section “Issues Related to Equality and the Prohibition of Discrimination” dedicated to the rights of LGBT persons, the issue of sexual harassment, and discrimination based on HIV/AIDS.
During 2024, Ombudsperson’s office received complaints regarding rights violations based on sexual orientation and gender identity in penitentiaries, by law enforcement officers, investigators, and medical personnel.
The report emphasizes that sexual orientation and gender identity are not explicitly recognized as protected characteristics in laws related to discrimination, hate speech, and hate crimes. The Ombudsperson reaffirms the necessity of legally recognizing these characteristics as protected grounds.
This year we are organizing the 10th anniversary Rainbow Forum, which has already become one of the symbols of the Armenian LGBT+ movement. Over the years, the Forum has been a platform where we have come together to reflect on current issues and challenges. We have shared our concerns and achievements, simply connected and familiarized ourselves with each other and with the important work and contributions we’ve made.
The Forum page is now available on our website, where you can learn more about the event, apply for participation, and propose agenda topics for discussion during the forum. You can also find information about previous forums there.
An issue that needs a solution
We recently published a video where professionals talk about discrimination: how it affects people and why an anti-discrimination law is necessary. Experts working in the public sphere, a psychologist, a social worker, and a lawyer, discuss the different forms of discrimination in Armenia, the gaps in legislation, and the steps the state should take to prevent discrimination. The video is available in Armenian.
